We’re excited to continue sharing the stories of our in-house makers.
This week, we’d love to introduce you to our Cup Seamer, Jennifer.
Jennifer’s been in the knitwear industry since age 16, and is as skilled at finishing garments as she is making the team smile.
We hope you enjoy learning a little more about her story below.
How did you start in the knitting industry?
My mother actually took me along to an interview with a knitwear manufacturer on Karangahape Road when I was 16. I thought I was going along with mum to her own interview, but it turned out it was for me! They invited me to do a trial and I learnt to pick it up as I went. I was nervous at first - all I could do was sit at the machine and learn what i needed to know!
It took me about 1 year to learn the cup seaming machine, and to become comfortable with the best way to hold the garment panels. Over the years I’ve learnt how to hand finish, cup seam, and understanding the different washing needs of each individual garment and fibre we use. It means I can move around the workroom depending on what is needed.
Were you born in New Zealand?
I was born in Rarotonga! I moved to Tonga for school when I was 9 and then when I was 12 I moved over to be with my parents, who had recently moved to Auckland. It’s been really cool to learn about all of the other cultures in the workplace here - it’s something that has made me want to connect with my own culture more. I am actually learning Rarotongan from my husband!
What do you take the most enjoyment from in your day-to-day life?
Bringing up my 5 children. I have 3 boys and 2 girls. I love the energy at work too. It’s really enjoyable to be here with all my friends and chat to them everyday.
Thanks for joining with us in celebrating the hands behind your knits.
